I would like to get a model of DE 193 (Garfield Thomas) for my WWI veteran grandfather.

The only sites I have seen are quite expensive.

Can anyone advise as to a expedient and cost effective approach?

DE 193 Garfield Thomas was a Cannon class destroyer escort. I'd check the various ship molding shops and look for a Cannon class DE. Since you didn't mention scale I assume it doesn't matter. I'm pretty sure someone (can't remember now) made a Cannon Class DE. If you can't find one, look for a Buckley class destroyer escort, as they were basically the same, except for the propulsion plant. Look for its WW2 configuration.

Even though you said WW1, it really has to be WW2, since the first Cannon class wasn't commisioned until 1943.
Hope that helps.

Pitroad made a Cannon class based on Trumpeters England with the correct funnel etc. but i think it was a limited edition.

Cheers/Jan

You can see it built here

Thanks - it, of course was WWII . . . typo - thanks